Ceiling plinths for suspended ceilings: types: comparisons and photos

Do I need a ceiling plinth for a suspended ceiling?

A stretch ceiling is a thin sheet of PVC film or synthetic fabric. To fasten the material, a frame is constructed from special profiles (baguettes), which are mounted around the perimeter of the room with a distance of 5-7 cm from the base floor. Then the canvas is stretched and tucked into the baguettes with a special spatula. The material is securely fixed, forming a flat, smooth surface.

In order to thread the canvas, a special groove is provided in the profile design. Therefore, after installation, there remains a gap between the walls and the suspended ceiling in which dust will collect. To close the installation gap, as a rule, masking tape is used - this is a special narrow strip of PVC that serves as a decorative plug.

But many people prefer familiar decor, especially when the interior is decorated in a classic style. A stretch ceiling with a plinth makes the room more elegant and formal, while with masking tape the room looks simple.

Fillets can imitate wood or stucco, are distinguished by a variety of patterns and are painted in any color. And in some cases, for example, for installing eaves lighting, wide borders are indispensable.

Important: fillets do not stick to the stretch ceiling. The canvas does not have sufficient rigidity for attaching decor. In addition, some types of glue corrode the surface of the film. Borders are attached only to the wall, so they must be light and fit well to the surface.

Types of skirting boards for suspended ceilings

Wooden and plaster fillets are too heavy and inconvenient to work with this type of finishing, we will not consider them, we will focus on more suitable options. Skirting boards for suspended ceilings are made of polystyrene foam, polyurethane and PVC. Let us examine in detail the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Foam

Foam ceiling plinth is the most popular type of decor. Available in lengths of 1.3, 1.5 or 2 meters. Polystyrene moldings are lightweight and easy to process; they can be easily cut with a sharp utility knife. Available in a variety of designs: with geometric patterns, imitation stucco, etc.

The color is white, but the fillets can be painted before or after installation. In the latter case, cover the surface nearby with masking tape so that splashes do not fall on the suspended ceiling.

Foam skirting boards are not without their drawbacks. They are fragile and brittle; care must be taken when repairing them. It is advisable to purchase a border with a reserve of 1-3 pieces (depending on the area of ​​the room).

The material is not capable of bending, so it is only suitable for well-leveled walls. Otherwise, the plinth will not fit tightly and the fixation will be unreliable. Also, polystyrene is not suitable if the room layout contains rounded areas.

Lightweight foam fillets with suspended ceilings are attached to the wall using:

• liquid nails;
• finishing putty;
• water-based glue (solvent-free).

Polyurethane

This material is heavier, so this plinth is glued with a special compound. Some manufacturers of polyurethane decor, for example, ORAC Decor, also produce glue for their products: ORAC Decofix and ORAC-Fix Extra.

To cut this type of baseboard, you will need a miter saw.

Large interior cornices are additionally screwed on with self-tapping screws; the caps are then masked with putty and non-aggressive paint for foam plastics.

Polyurethane foam is also available in a flexible version and easily adheres to uneven or rounded walls.

Baguettes can be washed and repeatedly painted in any color, maintaining the texture of the material. So it’s easy to paint the baseboard to match the suspended ceiling.

And the range of products is very wide: with patterns and ornaments of any shape and size. But it is worth considering that polyurethane moldings are the most expensive type of decor.

Plastic

Polyvinyl chloride is used for production - the same material as for film ceilings. PVC skirting boards tolerate moisture, so they are successfully used in kitchens, bathrooms and toilets. The surface can even be washed.

The moldings are produced in a length of 2.5 m and so far only in one version: white without a variety of patterns and sizes. But they are not glued, but are inserted into a special groove in the profile for suspended ceilings; additional elements are used at corners and joints. Therefore, installation is much easier and faster compared to previous options. In addition, after installation, finishing is not required in the form of painting or puttying the joints.

Plastic fillets are strong and lightweight, but not flexible, so the walls must be straight. You will need a hacksaw for cutting. In terms of price, they occupy an intermediate place between foam and polyurethane baguettes.

What glue to use when installing decorative elements

If you purchased decorations made of foam plastic, then avoid using polymer adhesives, as they contain a solvent and can destroy the foam. For this reason, it is ideal for polyurethane baguettes, as it quickly sets and dries.

Advice! After purchasing glue, it is better to test it on pieces of materials to understand how it affects structural elements and decorations.

Liquid nails are considered the highest quality and most convenient. They set quickly and are compatible with all materials. When choosing liquid nails, choose acrylic types, as they do not have such a strong odor as neopropylene liquid nails. When installing the baseboard, you should wear a mask and gloves so that the glue does not negatively affect your health.

Which ceiling plinth to choose

All types of borders, except plastic ones, are glued only to the wall. Therefore, for a stretch ceiling it is better to choose a light baseboard that has a wide vertical stripe. This will make the connection stronger.

When choosing the size of the plinth, take into account the height of the ceilings. With large fillets, a small room will seem even smaller. For a harmonious visual perception, you should focus on the following parameters:

1. For ceiling heights up to 2.5 m, narrow fillets are attached - up to 4 cm.
2. At 2.5-3 m, you can choose a plinth 5-10 cm wide.
3. Above 3 m - a wide border, from 10 cm or more.

The choice of material depends on the room:

1. If the walls are not too smooth or there are rounded areas, a flexible polyurethane molding is installed under the suspended ceiling.
2. For rooms with high humidity (kitchen, bathroom, bathroom), plastic skirting boards are best suited.
3. Sometimes hidden LED strip lighting is installed around the perimeter of the ceiling. Then take fillets with a wide horizontal part. Some products even have a reflective foil strip to enhance the light.
4. In other cases, when there is no particular difference in the material, they take the cheapest ones - foam plastic.

The appearance is matched to the interior of the apartment. If the wallpaper has a pattern, it is better to take moldings with or without discreet patterns. If the design of the walls and ceiling is simple, you can choose a plinth with complex patterns, imitation stucco, etc.

Often they choose white or paint the molding the same shade as the wall. The contrasting cornice looks interesting, but this solution is only suitable for modern interior styles. Imitation of other materials is also used: plaster (for classics), wood (country, Provence), metal (high-tech).

Rating of expensive products

KX/002 Cosca

The product is made of ecopolymer. The chemical formula includes natural plasticizers. Innovative technologies are used in production. Parameters – 200*12*5.3 cm. It is reliable and highly durable. Not afraid of mechanical damage. Shows resistance to high humidity and negative influences. Easy and simple to put in order. Even a beginner can handle the installation. Allows you to hide all the cracks and inaccuracies in the work. Makes the interior of the room complete and aesthetic. Can be purchased at specialized retail outlets or ordered online in an online store.

The average cost is 1137 rubles.

skirting board KX/002 Cosca

Advantages:

• light weight;
• safety;
• attractive appearance;
• efficiency;
• environmental cleanliness;
• reliability;
• ease of installation;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• none.

DX/170 Oracle

Universal polyurethane profile. Products of the famous world leader Orac Decor, specializing in the production of decorative structures made of polyurethane. Dimensions – 230*11.9*3.2 cm. Belongs to the universal category. Allows you to design doorways and perfect suspended ceilings. Suitable for decorating all rooms. It is easy to maintain and retains its original characteristics for a long time. In order to avoid counterfeiting, it is better to visit a company store and familiarize yourself with the assortment presented. The cost is high, but quite justified.

You can purchase the products at a price of 2891 rubles.

skirting board DX/170 Orac

Advantages:

• high service life;
• goods from a global manufacturer;
• unique characteristics;
• high quality raw materials;
• environmental cleanliness;
• practicality;
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• versatility;
• light weight;
• attractive appearance.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Europlast 1.50.623

The product from a domestic manufacturer is in high demand in our country. High-quality polyurethane is used in the manufacture of the model. The profile is smooth. Dimensions – 200*11.8*7.5 cm. A little experience in the field of home renovation is sufficient for installation. Makes the interior of the room complete and attractive, hides minor defects.

Retailers offer products at a price of 1,659 rubles.

plinth Europlast 1.50.623

Advantages:

• excellent moisture resistance;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• smooth surface;
• attractive appearance;
• light weight;
• simplicity in processing and cutting;
• ease of installation;
• solid structure;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• not found.

DX/174 Oracle

The design falls into the category of universal and multifunctional. The production uses modern environmentally friendly raw materials – duropolymer. The product withstands high indoor humidity and is not afraid of mechanical damage. Wear resistance is excellent. Parameters – 230*6*2.2 cm. Suitable for decorating small rooms. Gives them a finished look and removes blemishes. Retains its original characteristics for a long time. The fillets are easy to care for and put in order. The reviews are positive.

The average cost is 906 rubles.

skirting board DX/174 Orac

Advantages:

• versatility;
• value for money;
• quality factor;
• light weight;
• safety;
• environmental cleanliness;
• ease of use;
• practicality;
• small dimensions;
• advanced functionality.

Flaws:

• not installed.

KX/003 Cosca

The product is made from eco-polymer, which contains natural plasticizers. During production, the latest innovative technologies are used to make the cornice durable, environmentally friendly, and with unique technical data. Despite the reasonable price, the product is classified as durable. It is easy to install due to its low dead weight. It looks attractive and will complement any interior decor. The reviews are positive. Marriage items are not available for sale. Parameters – 200*12*4.5 cm.

Purchase price – 869 rubles.

skirting board KX/003 Cosca

Advantages:

• environmentally friendly product;
• smooth surface;
• practicality;
• wear resistance;
• multifunctionality;
• reliability;
• solid structure;
• long service life;
• has no foreign odor;
• absolute safety;
• excellent moisture resistance.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Alternative options

Instead of fillets, other methods of masking joints are used. Unlike baseboards, they are suitable for small spaces, as they do not visually make the room smaller.

Masking tape

This insert can be ordered together with a stretch ceiling. The plug is suitable for curved walls, corners and dividing profiles (between different panels).

The flexible decorative insert is selected to match the main material. They are produced in the same colors and textures as the surface of the canvas. As a result, the joint is almost invisible.

The tape is inserted into the gap without the use of glue; if necessary, it can be easily removed and attached back. In the corners it fits at 45 degrees without additional elements. Cut with sharp nippers or a knife.

This is the most popular way to hide the installation gap. The advantages include ease and speed of installation, the disadvantages are that the rooms in some styles look unfinished.

Read more: Types of masking tapes for stretch ceilings

Decorative cord

Thick ropes are woven from strong threads. They come in plain, close or contrasting colors. Sometimes metallic elements are added - gold, silver, etc.

This filling option looks good with satin, suede or matte fabrics.

Cords are available in different diameters, so you can choose the one that suits you, taking into account the size of the gap. This insert is flexible and is used on straight and rounded areas.

But the cord also has disadvantages. It collects dust and needs regular cleaning. Installation requires gluing the cord to the wall in the gap area, which makes the finishing procedure more complicated. And if the walls are uneven, it will be noticeable due to incomplete fit.

Recommendations from professionals for installing fillets

Consider these tips:

• level the walls;
• if necessary, call specialists for installation;
• do not attach the product to the ceiling;
• While working, cover the canvas with film;
• take preliminary measurements.

It is these discreet details that often serve as the finishing touch, emphasizing a particular style of furnishings.

Is it possible to leave a suspended ceiling without a plinth?

Let's consider what will happen if the gap is left open after installation. This solution has only one advantage - some saving of money and time. And the disadvantages are the following:

1. The appearance will be sloppy. The joint between the ceiling and the wall is noticeable, especially if you apply thick non-woven or vinyl wallpaper.
2. Dust and dirt will accumulate in the gap behind the canvas, which is very difficult to clean.

For these reasons, leaving gaps is not recommended. If you don’t like the methods of masking the joint, another option is possible - a gapless profile. These are special baguettes with pressing elements. Fixing cords are inserted into the profiles, which then press the canvas tightly against the wall.

The joint is almost invisible. This finish looks simpler than baseboards, so it is well suited for minimalist and modern interiors.

It is important to take into account that to install a gapless profile, perfectly smooth walls are required, otherwise the clamps will not be able to press the panel tightly and gaps will remain.

Ceiling profile "Knauf": quality, ease of installation, price

Almost everyone who has done repairs at least once is familiar with Knauf products. This is an international company that produces building materials, in particular profiles. They are made from steel by cold rolling. The profiles of this manufacturer are always galvanized, which significantly extends their service life.

The Knauf ceiling profile is familiar to everyone who has ever done a renovation

Knauf metal profiles have the following classification:

1. Rack-mounted. Section sizes – 50/50, 75/50, 100/50 mm.
2. Guides. Section sizes – 50/40, 75/40, 100/40 mm.
3. Ceiling. Section dimensions – 60/37 mm.
4. Ceiling guides. Section dimensions – 28/27 mm.

The standard length of elements is 3000 and 4000 mm. If necessary, it can be increased or decreased. This is usually done at the request of the customer.

The most popular option is the Knauf PP ceiling profile 60x27x3000 mm. It is used to create frames for ceiling structures. The main advantages of this type of building material can be considered its following features:

The most popular ceiling profile from Knauf is the PP model 60x27x3000 mm

• the shelves and the profile wall each have three grooves, which enhance the strength of the product;
• the width of the wall allows you to conveniently attach sheets or panels to it;
• The connectors that come with the profile save time when installing the required frame.

The price of a Knauf ceiling profile averages 180–220 rubles per unit.

Helpful advice! When installing a frame made of Knauf PP 60x27 mm, you should use special self-tapping screws, which can be purchased along with the profile. This will make the fastening job much easier.

Photos of suspended ceilings with fillets

Thus, the plinth goes well not only with traditional types of ceiling decoration, but also with tension structures. When choosing fillets, it is important to take into account the general style of the interior and the features of the room, such as operating conditions, the degree of curvature of the walls, the configuration and height of the room.

How to calculate the required quantity

What quantity of plinth is best to purchase for suspended ceilings so that it is enough for all the finishing work? There is a simple formula for how to calculate correctly: to do this, you need to measure the perimeter of the room, and to these dimensions add the length of one large baseboard strip. For what? This is necessary to adjust the joints, and you may also need an additional insert in the corner of the room.

If the walls in the room are smooth and have right angles, then you can buy corner inserts - many manufacturers offer this type of finishing.

A pre-glued plinth corner will help save time spent on finishing work.